X‐Ray Shielding Performance and Characterization of Electrospun PVC/Bismuth(III) Oxide Nanocomposites

Abstract

AbstractTo develop an alternative surface to lead‐based shieldings, we synthesized bismuth(III) oxide‐free and bismuth(III) oxide‐loaded poly(vinyl) chloride solutions via electrospinning process. Nanocomposite surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thickness and electrical conductivity of different samples were measured and linear attenuation coefficients, half‐value length, tenth‐value length, mean‐free path and shielding performance were calculated with corresponding formula. The attenuation behaviors of samples were plotted by X‐COM software. According to results of instrumental analysis, micro‐particulated bismuth(III) oxide powder was adapted into nanofibrous structures and bismuth(III) oxide loading lead to development on thermal behaviors. Besides, bismuth(III) oxide‐loaded poly(vinyl) chloride samples showed limited electrical conductivity and improved X‐ray radiation attenuation. Increasing weight percentage of bismuth(III) oxide caused a decrease on half‐value length, tenth‐value length and mean‐free path values. It was concluded that studied samples should be used as multi‐layer form for achieving desired radiation dose reduction. By increasing w% of bismuth(III) oxide powder, more effective surfaces for radiation shielding can be manufactured.